PLANS to open a new academy to replace Sidney Stringer School in Coventry have been brought forward by a year.

Education officials from the city council have persuaded the government to fast-track the project after 40 per cent of the Hillfields school was destroyed in a fire in September.

Work could start on the new academy, which will be part of the new learning quarter in Swanswell, in 20 months' time with a planned opening in 2011.

Cllr John Blundell, cabinet member for children, learning and young people, said: "I'm delighted we've been able to work quickly and

effectively to bring a common sense solution to the long term future of Sidney Stringer School, and although this will be a hugely challenging project, everyone in the council, partners and the sponsors of the academy are hugely committed about making this work.

"The new academy will be a flagship building in the heart of a revitalised part of the city centre - the young people in the community deserve the best, and that's what they will be getting."

Fire-damaged buildings at Sidney Stringer were demolished and cleared over the half-term break so temporary classrooms can be set up.

Head teacher Brian Worrall said: "The city council and the contractors worked double time and weekends to make sure the site was cleared of unusable and fire-damaged buildings by the time we came back.

"They've done a fantastic job considering how much had to be done."

Portakabin is providing modular buildings which will provide much-needed space.

The new buildings should be in place by the second week of December with the school back to a normal timetable by Christmas.

The temporary buildings will be used for subjects including art and design, technology, PE, drama, ICT and sport.

There will also be changing facilities, administration offices and a staff room.

Mr Worrall thanked parents for their support since the fire. He said: "The parents have been incredibly supportive and I am really grateful to them."

Meetings for parents to update them on what is happening are likely to take place over the next two weeks.

It is still unclear exactly how the blaze started. The police and the school's insurance company are still investigating the cause with arson a possibility.